How to Make a Healthy Lunch for Picky Schoolkids

January 14, 2019

While a simple peanut butter and jelly sandwich will get the stamp of approval from most kids, parents are always trying to figure out a way to pack something healthy…and something kids will like.  We searched around for some of the top ideas from parents and nutritionists to give you some fun and healthy options.

From EatingWell.com:

Pizza Roll Up Bento Lunch

  • 1 8-inch whole-wheat flour tortilla
  • 2 tablespoons pizza sauce
  • 6 pepperoni slices
  • 3 tablespoons shredded part-skim mozzarella
  • 1 cup bell peppers and carrot sticks
  • 2 tablespoons creamy dressing, such as ranch
  • ½ cup small pineapple pieces
  • 1 (1 ounce) square dark chocolate

Prep:

Place tortilla on a plate and spread pizza sauce over. Top with pepperoni, then sprinkle cheese. Microwave on High until the cheese is just melted, 40 to 45 seconds. Roll the tortilla up. Let cool for 10 minutes. Slice into pieces. Pack the slices in a medium container. Pack bell peppers and carrots in another medium container. Use a small dip-size container for dressing. Pack pineapple in one small cup and include chocolate in between containers.

Cover and refrigerate the bento box for up to 1 day.

 

From Mom On Time Out:

According to Trish at Mom On Time Out, food is just more fun when it’s on a stick!  Try this Turkey Club Ka-Bob:

You’ll need

  • slices of turkey
  • bacon
  • sourdough bread
  • avocado
  • Swiss cheese
  • Lettuce

Lightly toast a piece of sourdough bread and cut into quarters. Thread bread quarters, one slice of turkey folded in half and half again, bite-sized piece of Swiss cheese, bacon, lettuce, and a chunk of avocado. Repeat if you have room.

 

And kids will go nuts for these Banana Dog Bites from Weelicous.

You’ll need:

  • 2 Bananas, peeled
  • 1/4 Cup peanut butter, divided (Alternative choices:  almond or sunflower butter)
  • 2 Tortillas

1. Place one tortilla on a flat surface and spread 2 tbsp of peanut butter on the tortilla to evenly coat.

 

2. Place one banana near the edge of the tortilla and roll it up.

 

3. Slice into 1/2 inch rounds and serve.

Looking for even more ideas?  Be sure to visit Weelicous, Mom On Time Out, and EatingWell.com!